Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts

I am a recent graduate of Gurnick. I enrolled in their LVN program. Don’t get discouraged by previous reviews, which don’t accurately reflect this campus and the programs. I took the prerequisite course at the campus than online and Dr. G is an awesome instructor. I recommend taking the course in person rather than online. A lot of what you will learn/​review in Bio science will help you understand anatomy and physiology, which is a class in the first module. The program was rough around the edges the first three months because it was going through a transition of coordinators and instructors. And, although the first months were chaotic and frustrating, those changes were needed in order to better the program and most importantly were in the best interests of the students. That is one thing that I love about this school. You’re voice will be heard and adjustments will be made or at least tried. Karen Petersen, who is currently the VN coordinator, has done an exemplary job. You guys don’t understand what she has done. She came in while the program was a chaotic mess and took it upon herself to fix it and save her students. There were a couple times in the beginning that I questioned whether I had made the correct choice attending this particular school. However, I’m glad I stayed. Karen and Deb have done everything in their power to make sure all of their students are more than prepared to take the NCLEX exam. And, that’s how it should be! They truly care about their students, and not just academically. They are part of my family. They have been more supportive than my own immediate family and they will step in whenever you need assistance. So, ultimately do I regret attending? The answer is no. The school has had no violations, has knowledgeable diadactic and clinical instructors, great clinical sites, and the staff has the students best interests at heart. I’m more than content with my decision and can’t wait to take their NCLEX prep course and pass my boards.

I just came out of the LVN program. This course enabled me to enter into a career and poise myself to bridge to RN, and ultimately attain my Masters in Nursing. All the above mentioned was very far off a mere 18 months ago and merely a name on many impacted waiting lists in the Bay Area! The confidence most teachers, several administrators, and clinical staff places within their students is unparalleled. My particular class honestly experienced many growing pains within the LVN program as the director position changed hands several times. And where it ultimately landed will tell day by day. But, as an administration they dealt with this change professional and tried very hard to leave little impact on our education. Several teachers are amazing, and their hearts are definitely in the right place. Others, are out for money, and power trips, but that is the name of the game anywhere. The committed teachers enabled me to pass my HESI on the first try, along with the NCLEX, and ultimately start me on a good direction in my nursing career. Deb Ferrari, campus director, is the glue that holds this together, although behind the scenes, her door is always open, and she acts with integrity and is fair. I thank Gurnick, and it’s LVN program. Your education and experience is what you make of it, but I thank Gurnick for providing a good backbone for a positive experience!

I graduated from the phlebotomy program about 2 years ago and it was a miserable experience. The whole program was extremely unorganized. For the amount of money I paid, I really feel they were not up to par and failed me in many ways. I’ve made countless phone calls which lead to little or no responses. I recently had to recertify and had questions on how to do so and when i called the administrator had no clue on how to help me and was nothing but rude. She said she couldn’t get me in for an appointment until after my certificate had already expired. Mind you it Costs $ 350+ to reinstate your certificate after it expires compared to just $ 150 to recertify it. She then continued to be rude after I voiced my frustration and said «Well there is nothing I can do for you right now. I haven’t even began to look into it.» I was shocked. Needless to say I ended up figuring it out on my own but felt greatly disappointed in the lack of action and support I got from gurnick.

I attended the prerequisite course recently and start the core LVN program soon. I have had a wonderful experience so far.
I agree with some earlier reviews saying that the online textbooks should be amended, as there are typos and whatnot. But overall I have had a great experience.
Everyone has been very helpful and understanding and I can’t wait to finish my program so that I can write a positive, updated review!

I recently graduated from the phlebotomy class and I do not recommend this place at ALL! Before signing the acceptance letters, we were told that our instructor was going to be the guy from the open house event they were holding. One of the reasons why I wanted to join the class was because I had met the instructor at the open house and wanted to be in his class. Next thing you know, he was not the one who instructed the program. The staff did not even acknowledge the issue. A month later we found out from another Gurnick teacher that our supposed instructor had a failed background check and that was the reason for his absence. We ended up having a substitute instructor and another instructor who drove all the way from Fresno (who I must say made the lessons more fun and understandable.) In addition to this, we were given false information about where our externship would be held. I think this is from lack of communication within the staff which was very confusing to all the students.
All Gurnick wants is your money. Stay away from this school and spend your money elsewhere!!!

I am a recent graduate of the phlebotomy program. If you are looking for an efficient program this is not the place to go. I had three different instructors for one class because two professors decided to leave during the course (the first left because of a failed background check.)
During my clinical rotation I was unable to get ahold of my clinical coordinator, Shavonna Fox, for two weeks which set me back in finishing my clinical rotation. This was supposed to be a 5 week course but ended up being 3 months long from lack of organization and professionalism. Although my certificate said I graduated in June 2014 my license packet was not sent in until mid-​August.
Ultimately, this is an awful academy. I do not recommend going here because it is a waste of time and money. The most frustrating experience here was not the prolonged course, lack of communication or multiple changes in professors. What was frustrating was that I took these concerns to the academy and they were completely ignored. In particular Deborah Ferrari the Campus Director and Shawn Einck the Administrative coordinator were dismissive and rude when I tried to convey my frustrations.
I do not recommend Gurnick Academy and strongly encourage those seeking a medical license or certificate to look elsewhere.
–Emily

I attended the pre-​req Essential Medical Bioscience course at Gurnick in hopes of one day moving on to their VN program. $ 1,600 is NOT worth it! Plenty of things can change, and this course is one way that Gurnick ties you down.
The material learned in this course is nothing more than what I learned in my Biology class in high school. It’s crap! Just another marketing scheme designed to obtain profit and force upcoming students to stick with the school. Fortunately for me, I decided against moving on to the LVN program after successful completion of this «class». There are plenty of errors and typos in their online lectures, which is extremely unprofessional. I feel that I threw away $ 1600 for no reason at all!
Don’t make the mistake of going here unless you are entirely sure that you want to pursue a VN diploma. The course is non-​transferrable, so you’re going to end up losing so much money for nothing!
I wouldn’t be so upset if the material «taught» (everything was just read to us) was worth the out-​of-​pocket money, but it definitely is not up to par.
Also, the entrance exam for the school? I joke not at all when I say that it is elementary school questions, such as, «Which animal does not belong», «What food is different than the rest», etc. It’s a joke!
P.S, they constantly claim that you can «test out» of it, yet they also scare you by saying «only one person has passed it ever and it was a Russion doctor». Completely ridiculous lie. Anyone could pass the test, because the material learned is common sense!
Try asking them to let you take the test — they won’t let you and will try to find other means of scaring you into changing your mind.

Came here for the VN program. Had high expectations since I kept hearing great reviews, even when I was completing my last semester at SFSU.
Now that I’ve finished the program I have to say I am disappointed. Yes, there are a couple of teachers who know what they are teaching since the majority of them are or have been RN’s but there are instructors who simple don’t have the capacity to teach (or were not born to teach). The administration knows what I am talking about.
As for structure, there is none. A lot of the recent prereq students have asked me and a couple of my classmates if they should continue with the program here. We honestly told them to get out now and if they wish to continue on the nursing path to look for a different school.
I am not saying that I didn’t learn anything, of course I did. This school is simply lacking to make sure it’s students are happy here. In the past, my VN group had asked for improvement but have been treated like children; it is no wonder no student in this school is happy.
Because I care about them, I will never recommend any of my friends to attend here nor to anyone reading this. For the money you pay to get a VN education, students deserve better.

So, I thought long and hard about updating this post and what I should say. I have completed my degree with Gurnick Academy and I am gainfully employed. I learned a lot and I am grateful for my education. This was, by far, the hardest thing I have ever done (seriously, my bachelors degree was easier) and you will really have to be devoted to get what you need out of it.
There are some instructors here that are out of this world good. They truly like what they do and want to make sure they are putting out competent, caring nurses out into the world. Because of their instruction and their encouragement to study, study, study, I passed my NCLEX on the first try with only 85 questions. That being said, this place isn’t all rainbows and sunshine.
The staff (not instructors) regularly treat the students like children. Many are rude, career-​obsessed, and come off quite cold. If you complain or have a concern with how something is being done, be prepared to be «the problem student». Also, God help you if you want to do something that is not their standard way of doing things — if you deviate from the norm their heads might explode.
All in all, it is what you make of it. Some in our class messed around, cheated their way through exams and were surprised when they couldn’t pass their NCLEX simply by showing up to class. Those who cared, studied, and worked at it passed it just fine. The shining stars of this program are the instructors. Although, I have heard that since my graduation multiple instructors have moved on to other schools/​jobs.
Good Luck!

I’m a «recent» graduate and I have to say that I made the best of what was given to me. The program itself was not difficult. Some can argue that there are so many things wrong with this place, but there are positives as well. I felt the teachers taught the best they could and I did learn a lot. I was successful throughout the program and currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree.
As for the administration, it was subpar. The coordinator at the time would come in the classrooms to «check in» with us, but the students still felt she didn’t care about us but herself and her job position. I don’t know how it is currently, but I heard there are a lot of changes within the program. One change I do appreciate hearing is that they stopped using D&D Nursing Educators. I recommend using ATI instead, which will provide actual BOOKS and online tests.
Also, I feel like Gurnick is getting a little out of hand offering so many programs in that tiny building. All they see is dollar signs. They focus on the quantity rather than quality.

Since my original post Gurnick has made great efforts to fix the situation. I again had nothing but great things to say about the instructors and now since my certificate is in the mail and have been told that my license info was sent off to the state I felt that an update and additional stars were due.

everything is great until you meet cristi, the school administrator. She has a very diffcult personality to work with, my worst by far. she has that «i know it all» two face kind of attitude so if you decide to go to gurnick think twice. She proved to me that all she cares about is students passing with good scores so that she is reconized for her success. she doesnt care about your problems, how you’re feeling, who you are, all that matters is that her school is the greatest. I had to take a leave of absence due to family emergency and have to return to gurnick in april. its so sad to say that im not looking forward to returning. all i know is that im gonna be depressed for the next year of my life, im only doing it becasue im half way done and since i was young its been my dream to be a nurse, so sad that my journey there was complete hell, well cant say complete yet… So if you are looking for a school that will give you books and teachers but no support or motivation then gurncik is the one.

I recently graduated from the program in August 2012. After some reflection on my time at Gurnick, I would recommend this school to others. Here are some key highlights about the school.
Cost– Yes, it is expensive. They tack on fees (1600 pre-​req, cost of fingerprinting, background check, etc.) that I do wish they would pay for since we are spending well over 25K already. But whatever, you are paying to get into the program immediately and not wait for acceptance into a college nursing program. They did offer a stress relief class once a week for free and we did get a free lunch at the end of the program as a thank you;)
Program– You must read! And I repeat, you must READ! This program is designed for you to pass your NCLEX. From what I understood, NCLEX is knowledge based and critical thinking. So throughout the modules, there are lectures where you go over the material you need to know (and understand, keep reading until you do). You also have clinical sites you visit and a clinical lab where you do mock scenarios. The clinical sites are not that great but there are a couple where you can learn a lot. The school lab needed some work but towards the end, there was some improvement.
Faculty– My initial contact was with Tony, the admissions representative. He had a great attitude and was very informative. After the meeting, I had a great feeling about the school and I had to look no further. Tony’s role didn’t end there. He actually became a very encouraging person at the school. He says hello to everyone and often asked us how we all were doing, especially after tests and while we were studying. A friendly smile goes a long way, especially when you are stressed during finals.
The teachers are knowledgable and each has their own unique personality. You do have to adjust because they all teach differently, some techniques great and not so good. But they all have the best of intentions. I personally enjoyed Ms. M, Ms. H, and Ms. A’s personal nursing stories because they were giving us real life nursing experiences. Some stories I will keep in account as I begin my career. You spend the majority of the time with Ms. Marina for lecture and I cannot say enough great things about her, in fact, all the teachers have something great to offer.
There is only one flaw with faculty and that is unfortunately the program coordinator. Let’s just say its difficult to have a normal conversation with her. So if you don’t find yourself in her office for whatever reason, its smooth sailing. Otherwise, it may be like pulling teeth.
Overall– This program is intense. You must keep up or you will fall behind. The instructors are there to facilitate your learning but they are not going to take the NCLEX for you. They give you the right set of tools and you must use them. Gurnick is a great school and I definitely recommend it. The reason why? I feel well prepared and ready to take NCLEX. Good Luck:)

This school has taken a turn for the worst! The beginning is great and Gelena is wonderful. But have Marina teach you all 3 classes in the end and just letting everyone cheat and giving you websites to cheat is ridiculous! Good job Gurnick!

Just to update: I graduated in January. I took the boards a month later. For LVN’s you can have anywhere between 85 — 205 questions depending on how your scoring. The computer shut me off at 85. I feel Gurnick could not have prepared me more for the boards. Just to clarify, I went to Gurnick in Concord. I have had people contact me concerning the San Mateo Branch which I heard is amazing. Again, I recommend this school to anyone.

I was a student of Gurnick years back and I can honestly say that they have helped me a lot in taking the right route /​path. The administrator are in constant search of improving the quality of service they provide. Their clinical sites were the best. I would recommend this school to anyone wanting to be in the nursing profession. They are a good training ground especially in this very competetive industry. Maria, one of their staffs has been very responsive to student’s inquiries and needs. Another one is Christy Bill who I can consider a big asset of the institution.

I completed Gurnick’s MRI Program about 2 years ago. Their program is structured that way that you start clinical about after a month being in the program. After one month you attend school once per week and you go to clinical 3 times per week.
I had overall positive experience in the program and got a job offer at one of the clinical where I did my rotations. From what I have seen, I can say that Gurnick’s MRI program is the strongest in Bay Area.

I began the prerequisite Essential Medical Biosciences course at the Gurnick Campus in Modesto a couple of years ago. After working forty years, I’d been laid off, and had limited prospects of returning to my prior profession, so I was retraining into nursing. The LVN program would have put me back into the work force in a very short time, with excellent prospects for immediate placement, halfway decent income, and future advancement. My experience with Gurnick was limited to just a few months, as I received an offer I could not refuse, to return to work in my profession. That’s my backstory.
The Essentials class is sufficient to get one started. As a general overview, It is not a difficult course, and the textbook publisher has many training aids on their website to help reinforce learning. A number of students found the class difficult because they were doing the minimum amount necessary, trying merely to PASS the course. Do the work and gain the knowledge that you will need later. If you have the knowledge, the grade will be there too.
Most of my classmates were transitioning to new careers, or improving themselves by reclassifying up from CNA. There were also a couple of single moms, working hard to get off the dole and into the workforce. God Bless Them All. There were a couple of students who had no clue about nursing and no desire to care for others. One even said on a couple of occasions, that she could not and would not give injections. So, to all prospective nursing students, if you are not serious about this honored and needed profession, if you are not prepared to to that which is unpleasant in order to care for your patient, do the serious and motivated students a great big favor. Leave space in the classroom for those who really want to be there.
Gurnick’s a good school, and every person I’ve come in contact with was professional, courteous, and helpful. Those that were new in their positions, and unable to help me themselves, were able to direct me to someone more knowledgeable.
I did not rate this school any higher, because it is after all, a trade school, not MIT. However, as a trade school, it gets the job done, with few ruffles and flourishes. If ya wanna be an LVN, this school will get you there.

I am probably the oldest student here and always come back to visit my instructors. I took the ultrasound program here. The staff is very helpful and welcoming. Its a family type of environment. They provide free coffee, water, and tea. I never had such a thing at any other school I went to. Even though the program was very challenging my instructors made sure I had all the study material I needed to help me get out into the field. If I needed any extra help on a subject they would take the time to explain things and they helped me get back up to speed when I fell behind in class. They really care about the students success.
In the san mateo campus they not only offer Ultrasound but they also have an excellent MRI Program, Phlebotomy, and LVN program. In the future I would like to take their RT program in their concord campus to add on to my certifications.
Hope this post helps.

We heard of this school from a friend, and thought to meet someone over there to get info on the courses available, when it starts, etc. We met one of their staff (David?) and what we thought would be a consultation quickly turned out to be an interview. The guy, who’s annoyingly full of himself, baserely gave us any information at all. Overall a very unpleasant experience. We left with the feeling we we lost 1 hour of our time talking with a small man with a large ego.
i wouldnt recommend this place to anyone.